Between code releases, problems that are found with the code are fixed with program temporary fixes (PTFs).
The term PTF can refer to a Licensed Internal Code, an operating system, or other IBM® licensed program fix. Because some PTFs repair problems that might appear to be hardware failures, your actions with PTFs are important for both the customer and for IBM. It is often difficult to tell the difference between a hardware failure and a code problem that is fixed by a PTF.
For information on server firmware, Hardware Management Console (HMC), and operating system fixes, see Getting fixes.
The customer is responsible for maintaining fixes to Licensed Internal Code and the operating system.
To display the Licensed Internal Code fixes that are on your system, see Displaying Licensed Internal Code fixes. To display the operating system fixes and cumulative PTF packages that are on your system, see Displaying i5/OS PTFs.
Some PTFs fix problems that might appear to be hardware failures. Always ensure that the recommended PTFs are applied before you exchange hardware.
Cumulative PTF packages contain fixes for a given release of the i5/OS® operating system and associated licensed programs. You should install the entire cumulative PTF package after you first load or reload the operating system and periodically throughout the release as defined in your maintenance strategy.
Obtain information about preventive service planning (PSP) by contacting the customer's software service provider.
Before generating a LIC APAR, ask your next level of support to screen the APAR and enter the symptoms of the problem into the service support system.
Licensed programs are represented by names in the form xxxxyyy, where xxxx is the base operating system software and yyy is a unique, 3-character alphanumeric identifier.
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